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SqueezeDecember 20, 2018

Why did the MSN win?

There is no need to over-complicate explanations. The MSM+ Lepep election victory in 2014 was due to two principal factors; greater economic trust invested in the party compared with Labour and in A.Jugnauth, possession of a leader seen as far more Prime Ministerial than his Labour counterpart. .

The MSM+ Lepep campaign focus stuck resolutely to its core messages of ‘economic competence and strong leadership. ‘ The clue was, after all , in the title of the party manifesto Strong Leadership; A Clear Economic Plan; A Brighter, More Secure Future.

The ‘other lot” messed up the economy, ” failed to fix the roof while the sun was shining and above all the MSM CHIEF and leader past economic and law and order performance stood as reference to present and future nation welfare. “He will fixed it” and Let Him do the Job” became the repetitive mantra.

MSM SENIOR leader required the argument that it was ” Time For Change” , and he chooses to personally and permanently stay to bring back a new golden age. But has failed to do so.

The leadership and other partners inside Lepep simple message was equally uncomplicated, presenting A. Jugnauth as the only long term credible Prime Minister.

MSM VICTORY in 2014 should not disguise the party’s continuing structural problems. For all the modernisation under Pravin Jugnauth, the party’s elected representatives remain overwhelmingly male and , at governmental level, the mix products of old members and of an armada of advisors; of an elite; cosy higher class status with educational and professionals way beyond the means of most of the electorate they represent.

Distaste of Labour party head cannot be conflated with deep affection for the MSM PARTY. Revising the conduct of opinion polls , like in Britain, must be envisaged for Mauritius.

That the Labour party could not win an overall majority from a position where approximately two-third electors felt that “they care more about themselves than ordinary people ” and too close to drastic change in Constitution fundamentals, giving absolute power to the highest Authority; curtailing press and citizens freedom; sweeping parachute landing for jobs, and disconnect from ground realities spoke volumes of Labour’s inadequacies, but also highlights a need for self introspection for Labour.